The Sound Of Being A Woman: Trans Voice At The Healthcare Frontier

Voice plays a central role in trans women's experiences, influencing identity, mental health, and social participation. However, its role as a determinant of health remains insufficiently integrated into healthcare frameworks.

A scoping review was conducted following Joanna Briggs Institute guidance and PRISMA-ScR. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies addressing vocal experience and well-being in adult trans women.

Ten studies (n = 214) were included. Voice is primarily conceptualized as a relational and perceptual phenomenon rather than a purely acoustic parameter. It is associated with anxiety, social avoidance, identity validation, and quality of life. Key barriers include binary gender norms and limited access to specialized services, while facilitators include affirmative care and supportive environments.

Voice should be understood as a complex determinant of health. Purely technical approaches are insufficient; instead, holistic models integrating psychosocial and contextual dimensions are needed to support autonomy and well-being.